With so many solar myths out there, it can be hard to know what is true. We’re here to bust the myths and help you understand how solar energy can be valuable for your home or business. Solar power is one of the most sustainable sources of renewable energy available today. Solar panels are becoming more affordable all the time, which means that homeowners will have an unlimited supply of clean electricity just by putting up a few panels on their roofs.
SOLAR MYTH I: The Government Will Give You a Free Solar System for Your Home
The government is not going to give you free solar panels. There are definitely some incentives available for those who need a little extra help in the cost department, but there is no such thing as ‘free’ when it comes from the government.
The government does, however, offer a tax credit of 26% for solar installations (through December 31st, 2022). You can also get a rebate on the cost of your panels through some states and certain utility companies, but this is done in cash rather than actual free equipment.
When you’ve cleared up any misunderstandings, you’ll be more comfortable in learning how to further enhance your home’s energy efficiency and savings by utilizing solar energy. Learn how to increase the energy efficiency of your house and see your savings by obtaining tips on improving it. SUNSOLAR SOLUTIONS can help you with this process, so it’s easy to understand.
SOLAR MYTH II: Installing Solar Panels on your Home Will Take You Off the Grid
While it is possible to go completely off-grid with solar energy, the most common use of solar panels is to supplement existing grid-based systems. You can still be on the grid with or without using one large central power plant, but instead of relying solely on that system for your electricity needs, you are able to generate some of it yourself through your own renewable resources.
SOLAR MYTH III: A Residential Solar System is Too Expensive
Solar is not a one-size-fits-all all appliance. Each home and solar system should be evaluated individually. Solar panels are becoming more affordable all the time, and there is a lot of help available to get your solar system off the ground.
When we build our proposals, the goal is to make your solar payment less than, or equal to, what you are currently paying. This is done by offering a “NO MONEY DOWN” financing option that works best for you.
We also provide solar lease options that let you go solar with no money down and often pay less than your current utility bill. This option opens the door to people who cannot afford or do not want a large initial investment but still want to save energy and money over time by going solar—no money down. Solar isn’t just the future. It’s the present, and we’re here to help you get involved!
SOLAR MYTH IV: A Rooftop Solar System Will Decrease the Value of Your Home
This is false. Solar, in fact, can help increase the value of your home. According to Remodeling Magazine, “new solar installations typically add $16 per square foot” towards resale value. The energy savings provided by solar panels translate into better value for your home.
A study from Zillow also concluded that homes with solar panels tend to sell for more than comparable non-solar homes.
SOLAR MYTH V: Solar Panels Won’t Produce Energy in Cold Weather
Solar panels are actually more efficient in cold weather than in hot weather. Solar panels actually produce more energy in cold temperatures when there is less of a difference between day and night, which means that solar panels are most efficient during the winter months when they receive the least amount of direct sunlight.
In addition to this myth being completely false, it also points out one reason why solar panel systems can be so efficient in the cooler months. In the summer, heat from direct sunlight can impact energy production as it has a higher effect on your solar panels. Colder weather means that there is less of an influence from outside temperatures, and this also contributes to how efficient solar systems are in winter months.
